Conservative Council organises a Tree-planting ceremony to celebrate a community link

Children from an Amesbury primary school have planted a tree in the grounds of a new housing development which they named after winning a competition.

The youngsters from Amesbury Archer’s Vespasia class visited Evergreen Court to plant the Red Robin – an evergreen tree - helped by representatives from site developer, Wiltshire Council and members of the construction team.

Richard Clewer, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “It was highly appropriate that the children came along to plant an evergreen at Evergreen Court.

“It is a great way to celebrate the lasting link between the school and their new neighbours.”

The development has been specially designed for residents aged over 55 who want to live independently and will have access to care if they need it.

There are still some shared ownership and affordable rent homes available.

Conservative Councillor Richard Clewer said: “The quality and the finish of these flats is really impressive and I’m certain that these homes will prove hugely popular with residents.

“It is a central part of our strategy that we encourage and help our older residents establish themselves in suitable housing that they can occupy for as long as they need it.”

As well as one and two-bed apartments, the development features 24-hour care provision, a restaurant, laundry, activity rooms, communal lounge, guest suite and gardens.

The Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership secured an increase to the amount the council can borrow from Central Government to support the development of affordable homes, of which £1.2m will be used to fund this scheme.

The first residents are scheduled to move in by September.

Prospective residents must register with Homes 4 Wiltshire at www.homes4wiltshire.co.uk